How does Exodus 40:35 connect to the New Testament understanding of God's presence? Exodus 40:35—The Cloud of Glory Blocks the Way Exodus 40:35: “Moses was unable to enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.” • The moment the tabernacle is finished, God’s visible glory settles on it. • Even Moses, Israel’s leader and prophet, cannot step inside; holiness is overwhelming and inaccessible apart from divine invitation. • The scene leaves a lingering question: How will anyone ever enjoy unhindered fellowship with this glorious God? Shadows Pointing Forward • The cloud foreshadows a greater, more personal manifestation of God’s presence. • Moses’ exclusion signals humanity’s need for a perfect Mediator who can bring us all the way in. The Cloud Reappears in the Gospels • Transfiguration: “a bright cloud enveloped them” and the Father points to Jesus (Matthew 17:5). • Ascension: “a cloud hid Him from their sight” (Acts 1:9), identifying Jesus with the same shekinah glory. Jesus—God Tabernacling Among Us John 1:14: “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory…” • “Made His dwelling” literally means “tabernacled.” • The glory that once filled a tent now walks among people in the Person of Christ. • In Jesus, God’s presence is both fully holy and wonderfully approachable (1 John 1:1-2). The Veil Torn, Access Opened Matthew 27:51: “At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” Hebrews 10:19-20: “We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place… through the curtain—that is, His flesh…” • Christ’s sacrifice removes the barrier that kept Moses—and everyone else—outside. • Believers can now “draw near” without fear (Hebrews 10:22). Pentecost—Presence Inside Believers Acts 2:2-4: the Spirit fills the gathered disciples. 1 Corinthians 3:16: “You are God’s temple and… God’s Spirit dwells in you.” • God moves His dwelling from a fabric tent to living hearts. • The same glory that settled on the tabernacle now indwells every believer, guiding and empowering. The Church—A Corporate Dwelling Place Ephesians 2:21-22: “In Him the whole building is fitted together… a dwelling place for God in His Spirit.” • Together, believers form a living, mobile tabernacle that shows the world “God is with us.” Putting It All Together • Exodus 40:35 reveals glory present yet unreachable. • The Gospels unveil that glory wrapped in human flesh—Jesus. • Calvary and the torn veil grant open, confident access. • Pentecost distributes the presence to every believer. • The church becomes God’s ongoing earthly dwelling, anticipating the day when “the dwelling place of God is with man” forever (Revelation 21:3). |
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